But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. For the sake of Christ, then, I am content with weaknesses, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities. For when I am weak, then I am strong. 2 Corinthians 12:9-10

Life is filled with competing desires. Paul found himself in many uncomfortable circumstances he desired relief from. A "thorn in his flesh" was given to him, and Paul pleaded for God to take this away. He asked God to remove it, but God did not. His response was to rethink his situation and use it as an opportunity to invite God's power.

Sometimes what a man thinks he needs and what he needs are two entirely different things. Paul felt he needed this thorn removed yet God knew it was necessary. He allowed God's Word to change his thinking. The next time you desire relief from a painful moment, but do not receive what you're asking for, invite God to change the way you think by reflecting on His Word. See more opportunities to boast in weakness and fewer reasons to complain. Be content by following Paul's example.

DO THIS TODAY: Reflect on God's power in your weakness.